Now that spring break has finally arrived, I have been back in Forsyth county for approximately 24 hours, and it feels a little bit weird (like I’m in high school again). But since being home, I’ve realized just how many classic “FOCO” traditions I’ve already forgotten. If you’re also from good ol’ Forsyth County, you will definitely understand these fifteen things too.
1. The term “FOCO”
If you want to be a true native, use this term freely and frequently. It’s pretty simple, really: “FO” is short for Forsyth and “CO” is short for County. Put it all together, FOCO = Forsyth County.
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2. You absolutely REFUSE to call it "The Collection."
The Avenues is a shopping center where a majority of FOCO’s youth can be found on any given Friday night. But, we all remember the fateful day that the “Collection” sign replaced the “Avenues” sign. But, nobody actually calls it “The Collection.”
I mean, “The Collection at Forsyth”? Really? I don’t think so. Nice try, but FOCO youths are not having it.
3. You occasionally refer to your parents using their first names.
You'll walk up to your friends and say things similar, but not limited to, "Oh my gosh, David said the funniest thing yesterday," or, "Kelly did not appreciate my grade on that test." You'll even sometimes ask your friends about their parents. "How's Sharon doing today? She's the best."
(David and Kelly are the best parents hands down. Sorry not sorry.)
4. Psychic Sarah's is always, I repeat, ALWAYS open.
Has anyone ever been in there? Why is the open sign always on? We all have so many questions.
5. You don't know exactly what to say when people ask where you're from.
Forsyth County is basically where Johns Creek, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Suwanee all come together. Your address could say, Johns Creek, while your friend who lives less than five minutes away technically lives in Cumming. Most of the time I just say Forsyth County and pray the person knows what I'm talking about.
6. Every high school is named after a direction, and then there's Lambert.
Let's see, there's North Forsyth, South Forsyth, West Forsyth, Central...and Lambert. (But really, though, the Lambert - South rivalry is so real.)
Hook 'em Horns 'til the day I die!
7. Two Words: Biscuit Barn
The best biscuits bowls money can buy. I mean, why go to school when you can stop at Biscuit Barn for breakfast instead?
8. When it rains, everyone loses all ability to drive.
Maybe this just goes for the whole state of Georgia, but why does every human being feel the need to go 10 miles per hour when it rains? I have places to go and people to see.
9. The Cumming Fair is the most magical event of the fall.
Everyone grew up going to the Cumming Fair. Who could forget the huge Ferris wheel, the delicious funnel cakes, and the rides that may or may not fall apart with you still on them? (It's all part of the excitement.)
10. Jeep Wranglers Galore
Jeep Wranglers as far as the eye can see.
11. You've seen the Stone Mountain laser show approximately 37 times.
The Devil Went Down to Georgia will never get old. Little Johnny wins every time. So beautiful.
12. The Grand Opening of The Avalon was a HUGE deal.
It has a movie theater, an ice skating rink, AND Free People? What more could you possibly need?
13. The @FCSchoolsGA Twitter account is savage.
They would tweet sassy gifs, respond sarcastically to students, and they always had us hanging on to their every word when waiting to see if school was canceled due to snow (and they'd tell us to suck it up if it wasn't). Whoever is behind this account is my hero, honestly.
14. Indian Seats and Chattahoochee Pointe are the prime nature spots.
That is if nature is your thing.
15. Publix popcorn chicken is LIFE.
Publix is the lifeline of Forsyth County. Without it, where would we be? Fried chicken-less and Publix sub-less, that's where.
Without a doubt, FOCO was a very interesting place to grow up. Hopefully, these fifteen things brought up some fond FOCO memories!
